News • July 3, 2024
On Tuesday, July 2, 2024, in an email from Washington, DC, a spokesperson asserted, "These are deeply personal decisions, and we believe these surgeries should be limited to adults. We continue to support gender-affirming care for minors, which represents a continuum of care, and respect the role of parents, families, and doctors in these decisions." This opinion does not change the best practices previously affirmed by the administration.
This stance is deeply troubling, especially given the current climate where trans youth face escalating levels of discrimination, significantly limiting their access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare. The necessity for individualized and age-appropriate care for transgender individuals is lifesaving. Extensive research demonstrates that such care profoundly improves mental health and overall well-being at all ages. It leads to significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation while enhancing quality of life and body satisfaction.
“In this election year, with Republicans using this rhetoric to pass anti-trans legislation in North Carolina, we do not need the White House cosigning and advancing attacks on queer and trans youth,” stated Eliazar Posada, Interim Executive Director of Equality North Carolina. “All of us in North Carolina have seen the impact of this type of rhetoric in our communities. The Biden Administration should and must be our ally in this, rather than adding to the attacks on trans communities.”
It is imperative to recognize and uphold the importance of comprehensive, affirming healthcare for trans youth, ensuring they receive the support and treatment they need to thrive. We call on the administration to remain vocal in supporting trusted medical professionals and families to make the best treatment decisions.
